Amateur RL: Promotion-planning Marlins just two wins away from top flight

Peter Smith

LEEDS TEAM Milford Marlins are two wins away from promotion to the National Conference League’s Premier Division.

Milford finished fourth in Division One and have home advantage in tomorrow’s play-offs semi-final against fifth-placed York Acorn (2.30pm).

Former Hunslet player, Josh Nathaniel. PIC: Simon Hulme

The winners will play Normanton Knights, who beat Lock Lane 16-9 six days ago, in next Saturday’s promotion final at Widnes.

The top two, Hunslet Club Parkside and Underbank Rangers, were promoted automatically.

Milford coach Gavin Brown described tomorrow as a “massive game for the club” and said: “Preparations have built over the last three weeks to hopefully put on a winning performance in front of what will be a huge crowd.”

Andy Barker and Dwaine McRae are both unavailable and Marlins have fitness concerns over Ryan Oxtoby and James Barker.

Their pack will be boosted by the return to fitness of props John Elkington and Eddie Eilson, plus influential hooker/half-back Josh Parle’s availability after work commitments.

Tom Wilson is aiming to continue his strong late-season form while standing in as captain for James Barker and Milford will be looking for big games from forwards Robin Wilkes, David Warren and Connor Parr.

In the backs, Zak Snelgrove and Craig Harrison could return from work commitments and former Super League player Austin Buchanan is expected to feature, along with ex-Hunslet winger/centre Josh Nathaniel.

Dewsbury Moor are at home to Woolston Rovers tomorrow in the Division Three promotion final (2.30pm).